MT-1 (Melanotan I) 10 mg – Afamelanotide analogue

What is Melanotan 1 (MT-1) 10 mg?

Melanotan 1 (MT-1) is a synthetic analog of the hormone α-MSH (melanocyte-stimulating hormone) and an agonist of the MC1R melanocortin receptor. In the research literature it is described as a compound that stimulates melanogenesis — the production of melanin in the skin's melanocytes — which makes it a subject of research on pigmentation and protection against UV radiation.

MT-1 is an analog of afamelanotide — a substance with the same peptide sequence. MT-1 belongs to the category peptides for skin, sleep and libido, alongside compounds such as Melanotan 2 (MT-2) and PT-141.

In the version offered by Peptology, MT-1 is available in a 10 mg vial as a lyophilized peptide of high purity, confirmed by independent laboratory analysis (CoA for every batch). The product is intended exclusively for scientific research and in vitro applications.

Variant: MT-1 10 mg

This page concerns a single dose variant — MT-1 10 mg. Each vial contains 10 mg of lyophilized Melanotan 1 peptide. This is the standard, most frequently chosen amount for research protocols on melanogenesis and photoprotection — sufficient for both the „loading" phase and the maintenance phase in a single cycle.

MT-1 is offered only in the 10 mg variant. If you are looking for a melanocortin peptide with a broader profile, check Melanotan 2 (MT-2) 10 mg, and for a version aimed at libido — PT-141 10 mg.

How MT-1 works — the melanocortin mechanism

In the research literature, MT-1 is described as a selective agonist of the MC1R receptor. Below are the three most frequently studied elements of its action.

Why MC1R selectivity matters

Melanocortin receptors form a family (MC1R–MC5R) with different functions: MC1R is mainly responsible for pigmentation, and MC3R/MC4R for, among others, appetite and sexual functions. MT-1 acts relatively selectively on MC1R, which is why in research it is associated primarily with pigmentation, unlike the less selective MT-2 or the MC4R-targeted PT-141.

These data come from research on the melanocortin system and afamelanotide and do not constitute a claim about the effect of the research-grade product offered by Peptology.

Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics (research framework)

MT-1 is a linear peptide with a melanocortin-agonist profile. The most important research features:

• Class: synthetic analog of α-MSH, MC1R agonist (an analog of afamelanotide)
• Selectivity: predominantly MC1R (pigmentation), lower activity on the other melanocortin receptors
• Cumulative effect: melanogenesis builds up gradually over repeated administrations in research models
• Reference concentration: 10 mg of MT-1 dissolved in 1 mL gives 10 mg/mL (with 2 mL — 5 mg/mL)
• Route of administration in protocols: most often subcutaneous, according to the research protocol
• Form: lyophilized powder for reconstitution (10 mg vial)

Comparison: MT-1 vs MT-2 vs PT-141

All three peptides from the skin/sleep/libido category are melanocortin agonists, but they differ in receptor selectivity and main research area. The table below helps orient you to the differences.

MT-1 stands out for its selectivity for MC1R — which makes it the most „skin-oriented" of the three. MT-2 has a broader profile (pigmentation + libido), and PT-141 is aimed at libido. The comparison is for orientation and does not constitute a recommendation for use.

Research areas for MT-1

MT-1 and afamelanotide are among the better-studied melanocortin compounds. Below are the most frequently explored directions — all at the research stage, without confirmed indications for the research-grade product.

Pigmentation and tanning

The main direction of research on MT-1 concerns the stimulation of melanogenesis — an increase in melanin production in melanocytes. In models the compound is associated with a gradual darkening of the skin independent of intensive UV exposure.

Photoprotection and photosensitivity

Because melanin absorbs UV radiation, MT-1 (and afamelanotide) is studied in the context of protecting skin cells.

Selectivity vs MT-2

In comparisons, MT-1 is described as more selective for MC1R than MT-2, which translates into a narrower profile (fewer effects on appetite and libido). These are research observations, not therapeutic applications.

Note: The information is presented for scientific and informational purposes and is based on the literature on the melanocortin system and afamelanotide. It does not constitute medical advice, a recommendation for use or a claim about the effect of the research-grade product offered by Peptology.

MT-1 profile at a glance

• Selective MC1R agonist — an analog of α-MSH (afamelanotide) aimed at pigmentation
• Main research area: melanogenesis, photoprotection, controlled skin pigmentation
• More selective than MT-2 — a narrower profile, fewer effects on appetite/libido
• Category: skin, sleep and libido — alongside PT-141 and GHK-Cu
• An analog of the medicine afamelanotide, but the research-grade product is not a medication
• Every batch with a CoA and confirmed laboratory purity

All information provided concerns the research literature on MT-1 / afamelanotide and should not be interpreted as a promise of effect, an instruction for use or a claim about the effect of the research-grade product offered by Peptology.

Research dosing protocols

In research protocols, MT-1 is usually administered after reconstitution of the lyophilizate, most often subcutaneously:

• The schedule described in the literature includes a „loading" phase (daily, small doses over several–a dozen or so days) and a „maintenance" phase (less frequent administrations)
• The effect on pigmentation builds up gradually, which is why the protocols are spread over time
• After dissolving 10 mg in 1 mL the concentration is 10 mg/mL — calculate precise volumes and units in the peptide calculator
• Maximum 3 mL of solvent per vial

Combining MT-1 with MT-2 is not recommended (differing receptor profiles). These schedules come from the research literature and do not constitute a recommendation for self-administration.

Side effects and safety

In research observations of melanocortin compounds, side effects are usually mild and transient. The data concern research on the molecule, not the research-grade product.

Because of the effect on pigmentation, research on melanocortins pays particular attention to monitoring skin changes (e.g. moles). This information is scientific in nature and does not constitute an instruction for use.

Storage and reconstitution

MT-1 is supplied as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder in a vial. In lyophilized form it is stable at room temperature, protected from light and moisture — refrigeration before reconstitution is not mandatory. After reconstitution, stability depends on the solvent used, with Peptide Matrix Water™ significantly extending the peptide's lifespan.

• Before reconstitution: room temperature, in the original packaging, protected from light and moisture. A refrigerator is not mandatory.
• After reconstitution with Peptide Matrix Water™: stability in the refrigerator +2 °C to +8 °C for up to 60 days under appropriate laboratory conditions — the stabilizing formula extends the peptide's lifespan relative to standard solvents.
• After reconstitution with bacteriostatic or sterile water: stability in the refrigerator +2 °C to +8 °C for up to 28 days under appropriate conditions. Do not refreeze the reconstituted solution.
• Reconstitution: in a laboratory environment, Peptide Matrix Water™, bacteriostatic water or sterile water for injection is usually used, depending on the protocol.
• Volume: maximum 3 mL of solvent (capacity of a standard vial). For a precise calculation of volume and units, use the peptide calculator.
• Homogenization: add the solvent slowly down the vial wall, without vigorous shaking, then wait 10–15 min. Swirl gently, do not shake.

Laboratory tip: With your order, you can add Peptide Matrix Water™ to the cart — a stabilizing solution designed for working with reconstituted research peptides. More in the article Bacteriostatic water vs acetic acid vs matrix water.

Frequently asked questions about MT-1

What exactly is MT-1?

It is a synthetic analog of the hormone α-MSH and a selective agonist of the MC1R receptor (an analog of afamelanotide). In research it is associated with the stimulation of melanogenesis — the production of melanin — and with photoprotection. The results come from the research literature.

Is MT-1 a medicine?

No. The product offered by Peptology is a research-grade reagent, not a medicine.

How does MT-1 differ from MT-2?

MT-1 acts selectively on MC1R (mainly pigmentation), whereas MT-2 activates a broader spectrum of melanocortin receptors, which is why in research it is associated with both pigmentation and libido. MT-1 has a narrower, more targeted profile.

How does MT-1 differ from PT-141?

PT-141 (Bremelanotide) acts mainly on the MC4R receptor and is studied for libido, not pigmentation. MT-1 targets MC1R and is a „skin" compound. These are two different ends of the melanocortin family.

How is MT-1 stored and reconstituted?

The lyophilized vial is stored at room temperature, protected from light and moisture. After reconstitution, stability depends on the solvent: with Peptide Matrix Water™ — up to 60 days in the refrigerator +2 °C to +8 °C; with bacteriostatic or sterile water — up to 28 days. Avoid refreezing.

Where to buy MT-1 for research?

Peptology offers MT-1 (10 mg) as a research peptide with confirmed purity and independent laboratory analysis for every batch. Fast shipping, discreet packaging and certificates of purity with the product. For scientific background, also see the article Peptides — what they are, how they work, main categories and safety profile.

Related products in the Peptology catalog

Researchers working with MT-1 often also consider related melanocortin peptides and other compounds from the skin/sleep/libido category. Each of the products below has a certificate of purity (CoA):

See the full catalog: Peptides for skin, sleep and libido · Peptides for energy and regeneration · Solutions for peptides · Blog on peptide research

Molecule identity

Laboratory reconstitution

Laboratory protocol — reconstitution, research protocols, storage

Standardized protocol applicable to all research peptides in the Peptology catalogue. To calculate the solution concentration (mg/mL) for each vial, use the peptide reconstitution calculator.

60-second protocol

Quick reference

What you need

Five rules for reconstitution

Calculating concentration

Storage

Four mistakes to avoid

Shipping information

🚚 Shipping information

• Products in our warehouse – orders placed by 15:00 on working days are dispatched the same day, later orders on the next working day.

• Delivery with GLS to your address in 3–5 working days.

• Shipping costs €5 and is free from €50.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

In what form is MT-1 (Melanotan I) supplied and how should it be stored?

It is supplied as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder in a sealed vial. Store the unopened vial dry and protected from light, ideally at 2–8 °C. After laboratory reconstitution, keep the solution at 2–8 °C and use it within the period stated in the “Laboratory reconstitution” tab (up to 60 days with Peptide Matrix Water).

What purity does MT-1 (Melanotan I) have and how is it tested?

Every batch has a purity of 99% or higher, confirmed by HPLC and mass spectrometry (MS) and documented in a certificate of analysis (CoA). The report for the current batch is shown in the “Laboratory Analysis” tab.

Is a prescription required?

No. Available for research purposes, no prescription required.

Where can I buy MT-1 in Europe and what does it cost?

You can buy MT-1 in Europe online from Peptology, from 45,00 €. Delivery with GLS in 3–5 working days. Shipping is free from 50,00 €. Payment by card. Purity 99%+, with an HPLC report for every batch.

Laboratory Analysis

MT‑1 (Melanotan I) - 10mg - Batch - 0226 - Purity